4, St German's Place

Blackheath

London SE3 0NJ

Tel: 020 8858 0692

History

History is a living subject and is ever present in our lives. Our pupils are making history. We want our children to ask questions about the past, to understand it, to have their own opinions of it and to assess its impact on our own lives now.

We teach our pupils the skills of a detective so that they are able to investigate the past by building up a picture of what might have happened using different clues. This historical evidence is taken from a wide range of sources – books, the internet, historical maps, architecture, stories, documents, art, photographs, films, videos, pictures and artefacts.

We are fortunate to live in an area rich in history. We have easy access to an enviable choice of suitable places to visit in and around London.

Geography

We want the children to develop a sense of wonder and beauty at the world around them. All the children will ask questions about a variety of people and places both at home and abroad. We also want them to understand environmental issues and to consider the future of the human habitat. A considerable awareness of the principles of sustainable development is fostered and the children are encouraged to take positive action through class-based projects and whole school initiatives.

Religious Education

The ethos of the school is based on Christian principles. The Religious Education curriculum reflects the fact that the religious traditions in Great Britain are in the main Christian. However, a significant part of our religious education focuses on the history, beliefs, teachings and practices of the other principal religions. In this way our children learn tolerance, respect and understanding. Children are encouraged to develop a sense of care and consideration for those around them, preparing them for life in a multi-faith, multicultural society.

Children will learn to recognise the principal buildings and symbols of different faiths, to understand the significance of some religious texts and to appreciate the rich variety of customs and celebrations associated with these religions.

PSHE & Citizenship

In Personal, Social and Health Education and Citizenship, children learn about taking responsibility for their own health and well-being.  They also learn not only about their own rights, duties and responsibilities but also about the rights and responsibilities of others.  The teaching aims to help them respect and value the richness and diversity of our society.

Children are taught personal skills, such as how to:

·        be more independent, confident and mature

·        recognise their own achievements and mistakes

·        share their views and discuss what’s fair and unfair, right and wrong

·        set themselves goals and try to achieve them

·        keep themselves safe and healthy as they grow

Children also learn social skills such as:

·        thinking about how the choices they make affect other people and the environment

·        considering the different groups in society and how to get on with them

·        thinking about how and why rules are made

Children become aware of the social and personal issues facing them and as they develop these skills are able to make informed choices about their conduct both within school and in the wider world. Circle Time with form teachers offers children the opportunity to discuss these issues in a safe and supportive environment and to celebrate successes and achievements with their peers.

Sex and Relationships Education is viewed as a vital component of the PSHE curriculum across all age groups.  We believe we should support pupils through their physical, emotional and moral development, enabling them to learn to respect themselves and others, to take responsibility for their actions and equipping them with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions and move with confidence from childhood through adolescence into adulthood.  We believe that families are the key figures in their child’s sex education as they help their child cope with all aspects of growing up.  Learning at school complements discussions at home and provides accurate, honest answers to children’s questions.